Bad for memory to older people: Support for cognitive functions

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Bad for memory to older people: Support for cognitive functions

I. Cognitive disorders in old age: the scale of the problem and causes

Age -related changes in the brain are a natural process, but for some elderly people they lead to a significant deterioration in cognitive functions, including memory, attention, concentration and speed of information processing. These disorders can vary from mild forgetfulness and distraction to serious neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease.

• Statistics: According to the World Health Organization, dementia (a general decrease in cognitive functions) affects about 55 million people around the world, and almost 10 million new cases are recorded every year. Age is the main risk factor for the development of dementia, and the prevalence of the disease increases significantly after 65 years. About 5-8% of people over 60 years old suffer from dementia. According to various estimates, from 1 to 2 million people suffer from various estimates.

• Causes of cognitive disorders: Multiple factors contribute to the deterioration of cognitive functions in old age. These include:

  • Neurodegenerative diseases: Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, characterized by the formation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillar balls in the brain. Other neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, vascular dementia, dementia with Levy Taurus and Lob-School Dementia, can also cause cognitive impairment.
  • Vascular factors: Vascular dementia occurs as a result of damage to the brain due to impaired blood supply. The risk factors of vascular dementia include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking and cardiovascular diseases. Strokes, both large and small (microstraps), can lead to vascular dementia.
  • Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the brain can contribute to neurodegeneration and cognitive disorders. Inflammatory processes can be caused by various factors, including infections, autoimmune diseases and oxidative stress.
  • Oxidizing stress: Oxidative stress is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the ability of the body to neutralize them. Free radicals can damage brain cells, including neurons, which leads to cognitive disorders.
  • Reducing the level of neurotransmitters: Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals between neurons. With age, the level of some neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine, dopamine and serotonin, may decrease, which leads to a deterioration in cognitive functions.
  • Nutrient deficiency: The deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, folic acid and omega-3 fatty acids, can contribute to cognitive disorders.
  • Genetic factors: A genetic predisposition can play a role in the development of some neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Other factors: Other factors that can contribute to cognitive disorders include head injuries, brain tumors, infections, alcoholism, drug addiction, depression, anxiety and sleep disturbances.

• Early signs of cognitive disorders: It is important to recognize the early signs of cognitive disorders in order to seek medical help and start treatment in a timely manner. The early signs include:

  • Frequent forgetfulness, especially recent events or new information.
  • Difficulties with concentration and planning.
  • Difficulties with speech and selection of words.
  • Disorientation in time and space.
  • Reducing the ability to make decisions.
  • Changes in mood and behavior, such as irritability, apathy or depression.
  • Loss of interest in previously favorite classes.
  • Difficulties with the performance of familiar tasks.
  • Loss of things and the inability to find them.
  • Repetition of the same questions or stories.

II. Dietary supplements to support memory and cognitive functions: the mechanism of action and efficiency

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are becoming more and more popular among older people who seek to support their memory and cognitive functions. It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not medicines and cannot cure neurodegenerative diseases. However, some dietary supplements can have a positive effect on cognitive functions, especially with their deficiency or as a preventive measure. It is important to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements in order to make sure their safety and the absence of contraindications.

• The main groups of dietary supplements used to support cognitive functions:

  • Nootropics: Nootropics are substances that are claimed to improve cognitive functions, such as memory, attention and training. They act in various ways, for example, increasing blood supply to the brain, improving the metabolism of neurons and protecting neurons from damage. Nootropics, which are often used in dietary supplements, include:
    • Ginkgo biloba: It improves blood circulation in the brain, has antioxidant properties and can protect neurons from damage. Studies have shown that ginkgo biloba can improve memory and cognitive functions in people with Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, but the results are ambiguous.
    • Bacopa Monnieri (Bakop Monier): It is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve memory and training. It is believed that Bakop Monienia improves neurotransmission and has antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that Bakop Monier can improve memory and cognitive functions in healthy people and in people with age -related cognitive impairment.
    • Gotha Cola (Centella asiatica): Also used in Ayurvedic medicine. Improves blood circulation and has antioxidant properties. It can help improve memory and concentration.
    • Piracetam: Synthetic nootropus, which improves the metabolism of neurons and protects them from damage. In some countries, piracetams are released only by recipe. The effectiveness of piracetam in the treatment of cognitive impairment remains controversial.
    • DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol): The predecessor of acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter participating in the processes of memory and training. It is believed that DMAE can improve attention concentration and cognitive functions.
    • L-Carnitin: Participates in energy metabolism in cells, including neurons. It is believed that L-carnitine can protect neurons from damage and improve cognitive functions.
  • Antioxidants: Antioxidants protect the body cells from damage caused by free radicals. Oxidative stress plays an important role in the development of cognitive impairment, so antioxidants can be useful for maintaining cognitive functions. The antioxidants, which are often used in dietary supplements, include:
    • Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C is also involved in the synthesis of collagen, an important component of connective tissue, including the vessels of the brain.
    • Vitamin E: A fat -soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E can also improve blood circulation and protect neurons from damage.
    • Selenium: A trace element that is a component of antioxidant enzymes, such as glutathioneperoxidase. Selenium protects the cells from damage caused by free radicals, and supports the immune system.
    • Coenzim Q10 (COQ10): An important component of mitochondria participating in the production of energy in cells. COQ10 is also a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage caused by free radicals. COQ10 can improve cognitive functions and protect neurons from damage.
    • Resveratrol: Polyphenol contained in red wine, grapes and berries. Resveratrol has antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that resveratrol can improve cognitive functions and protect neurons from damage.
    • Curcumin: Active rubber ingredient. Kurkumin has antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that curcumin can improve cognitive functions and protect neurons from damage. It is important to note that Kurkumin is poorly absorbed by the body, so it is recommended to use the forms of turmeric with increased bioavailability, such as turmeric with piperin or liposomal curcumin.
    • Alpha-lipoic acid: A powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage caused by free radicals. Alpha-lipoic acid is also involved in energy metabolism in cells.
  • B vitamins B: B vitamins play an important role in the functioning of the nervous system and brain. B vitamins deficiency can lead to cognitive disorders. Group B vitamins, which are often used in dietary supplements, include:
    • Vitamin B12 (CianoCobalamine): It is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and maintaining the normal function of the nervous system. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to cognitive impairment, such as dementia and depression. Older people often experience vitamin B12 due to a decrease in the ability to absorb vitamin B12 from food.
    • Folic acid (vitamin B9): It is necessary for the synthesis of DNA and RNA, as well as for amino acid metabolism. Folic acid deficiency can lead to cognitive disorders, such as dementia and depression.
    • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): Participates in the metabolism of amino acids and neurotransmitters. Vitamin B6 deficiency can lead to cognitive disorders, such as depression and anxiety.
    • TIAMIN (VITAMIN B1): It is necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates and the functioning of the nervous system. Tiamine deficiency can lead to cognitive impairment, such as Wernik-Korsakov syndrome.
    • Niacin (Vitamin B3): Participates in energy metabolism in cells and synthesis of neurotransmitters. Niacin deficiency can lead to cognitive disorders.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA (eicopascentaenoic acid) and DHA (non-oxahexaenic acid), are important to the health of the brain. DHA is the main structural component of cell membranes of neurons. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can protect neurons from damage. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can improve cognitive functions in people with Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive disorders.
    • EPA (eicopascentenoic acid): It has pronounced anti -inflammatory properties.
    • DHA (Docosaexaenoic acid): It is the main structural component of cell membranes of neurons.
  • Phosphateidixine: Phospholipid, which is an important component of cell membranes, especially in the brain. Phosphatidylserin plays an important role in transmitting signals between neurons and maintaining cognitive functions. Studies have shown that phosphatidylserin can improve memory and cognitive functions in the elderly.
  • Kholin: It is necessary for the synthesis of acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter participating in the processes of memory and training. Kholin is also a component of cell membranes. Kholin is found in various foods, such as eggs, liver and soy. In dietary supplements, choline is often present in the form of choline bartratrate or CDP choline.
    • Cholina beaten: The most common form of choline in dietary supplements.
    • CDP-Holin (Citicolin): The improved form of choline, which is better absorbed by the body.
  • Other dietary supplements: There are other dietary supplements that can be useful for maintaining cognitive functions, such as:
    • Same (s-adenosylmetionine): Participates in the metabolism of neurotransmitters and has antidepressant properties.
    • Creatine: Improves energy metabolism in cells, including neurons.
    • L-theanine: The amino acid contained in green tea. L-theanine has a relaxing effect and can improve attention concentration.
    • Melatonin: A hormone regulating the cycle of sleep and wakefulness. Melatonin has antioxidant properties and can protect neurons from damage. Sleep disorders are often associated with cognitive impairment.

• The effectiveness of dietary supplements: scientific data: It is important to critically evaluate scientific data on the effectiveness of dietary supplements. Many studies of dietary supplements have small samples, short duration or methodological disadvantages. In addition, research results are often contradictory. Some dietary supplements, such as ginkgo biloba and omega-3 fatty acids, have more scientific evidence confirming their effectiveness to maintain cognitive functions than other dietary supplements. However, even for these dietary supplements, additional studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness and determine the optimal doses.

• Important factors affecting the effectiveness of dietary supplements:

  • Dosage: The effectiveness of dietary supplements may depend on the dose. It is important to observe the recommended doses indicated on the package of dietary supplements, or consult a doctor to determine the optimal dose.
  • Duration of admission: Many dietary supplements require a long -term trick to achieve a visible effect. You should not expect immediate results after the start of the dietary supplement.
  • Individual features: The effectiveness of dietary supplements can depend on the individual characteristics of the body, such as age, state of health, genetic predisposition and lifestyle.
  • Bad quality: The quality of the dietary supplement can vary depending on the manufacturer. It is important to choose dietary supplements from well -known and reliable manufacturers who conduct quality control of their products.
  • Combination with other methods: Bades are most effective in combination with other methods of maintaining cognitive functions, such as healthy nutrition, physical activity, mental activity and social interaction.

III. Safety of dietary supplements for older people: risks and side effects

Reception of dietary supplements with older people requires special caution. Older people often take several drugs at the same time (polypragmasis), which increases the risk of interaction between drugs and dietary supplements. In addition, older people often have concomitant diseases that can increase the risk of side effects of dietary supplements.

• Risks and side effects associated with the intake of dietary supplements:

  • Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with medicines by changing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. For example, ginkgo bilobe can enhance the effect of anticoagulants such as warfarin, which can increase the risk of bleeding. St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of many drugs, including antidepressants, contraceptives and immunosuppressants.
  • Side effects: Some dietary supplements can cause side effects, such as digestive disorders, headaches, dizziness, allergic reactions and increasing blood pressure. Some dietary supplements can be toxic in high doses.
  • Lack of standardization: The production of dietary supplements is not regulated as strictly as the production of drugs. This means that the composition and dosage of dietary supplements can vary from party to party. Some dietary supplements may contain impurities or not correspond to the declared composition.
  • False promises: Some dietary supplements can make false or misleading statements about the effectiveness of their products. It is important to be skeptical of statements about the effectiveness of dietary supplements and check information from reliable sources.
  • Delay for medical help: The use of dietary supplements instead of seeking medical help can lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment of serious diseases.

• Recommendations for the safe use of dietary supplements with older people:

  • Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor can evaluate the patient’s health, identify possible contraindications and evaluate the risk of interaction between dietary supplements and drugs.
  • The choice of reliable manufacturers: Choose dietary supplements from well -known and reliable manufacturers who conduct quality control of their products. Pay attention to the availability of quality certificates and compliance with GMP standards (good manufactoring practice).
  • Compliance with recommended doses: Follow the recommended doses indicated on the Bad packaging, or consult your doctor to determine the optimal dose. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
  • Side effects monitoring: Carefully monitor your health state after the start of admission of Bad. When any side effects appear, stop taking dietary supplements and consult a doctor.
  • Information of the doctor about the admission of dietary supplements: Tell your doctor about all the dietary supplements that you accept so that he can evaluate the risk of interaction between dietary supplements and medicines.
  • Do not replace medicines with dietary supplements: Bades are not a replacement for medicines prescribed by a doctor. Do not stop taking medications and do not change their dosage without consulting a doctor.
  • Critical attitude to advertising: Skeptically treat statements about the effectiveness of dietary supplements, especially if they seem too good to be true. Check information from reliable sources.

IV. Alternative and additional methods for supporting cognitive functions

In addition to dietary supplements, there are many other methods that can help maintain cognitive functions in old age. These methods include:

• Healthy nutrition: Healthy nutrition plays an important role in maintaining cognitive functions. It is recommended to consume products rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and omega-3 fatty acids. Such products include fruits, vegetables, berries, nuts, seeds, fat fish and whole grains. The use of processed products, sugar, saturated fats and trans fats should be limited. The Mediterranean diet, rich in olive oil, vegetables, fruits, fish and whole grain products, is considered healthy for the health of the brain.
• Physical activity: Regular physical activity has a positive effect on cognitive functions. Physical activity improves blood circulation in the brain, stimulates the growth of new neurons and protects neurons from damage. It is recommended to engage in physical exercises of moderate intensity, such as walking, swimming, cycling or dancing, at least 150 minutes a week.
• Mental activity: Mental activity helps maintain cognitive functions and prevents their deterioration. It is recommended to engage in mental exercises, such as reading, solving crosswords, learning foreign languages, playing chess or other board games. New activities that require mental stress are especially useful for brain stimulation.
• Social interaction: Social interaction plays an important role in maintaining cognitive functions. Social interaction stimulates the brain, reduces stress and improves mood. It is recommended to maintain social ties with friends and family, participate in social events and engage in volunteer activities.
• Stress management: Chronic stress can have a negative effect on cognitive functions. It is recommended to use stress control methods, such as meditation, yoga, tai-chi or deep breathing. Sufficient sleep is also important to reduce stress.
• Regular medical examinations: Regular medical examinations help to detect and treat diseases that can contribute to cognitive disorders, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and depression.
• Memory training: There are special exercises and techniques that can help improve memory and cognitive functions. These exercises may include training, visualization, associations and use of mnemonic techniques. There are also computer programs and mobile applications designed for brain training.
• Rehabilitation: Cognitive rehabilitation can be useful for people with cognitive impairment, which includes exercises and strategies aimed at improving memory, attention, speech and other cognitive functions.
• State therapy: The effect of bright light can help improve mood, sleep and cognitive functions in people with dementia.
• Aromatherapy: Some essential oils, such as rosemary and lemon, can improve memory and concentration.
• Musical therapy: Musical therapy can improve mood, memory and cognitive functions in people with dementia.

V. Practical recommendations for the selection and use of dietary supplements for the elderly

When choosing and using dietary supplements to support cognitive functions, older people need to take into account the following practical recommendations:

• Consult a doctor: This is the most important step. The doctor will be able to evaluate the general state of health, take into account the drugs taken and identify possible contraindications to the intake of dietary supplements.
• Determine Objectives accepts Badov: Clearly formulate what results you expect from the reception of dietary supplements. Do you want to improve memory, concentration, speed of thinking, or simply support the general state of brain health? Knowing the goals, it will be easier to choose suitable dietary supplements.
• Study the composition: Carefully study the composition of dietary supplements. Make sure that the composition contains the ingredients that have scientific evidence of effectiveness to support cognitive functions. Avoid dietary supplements with dubious or unexplored ingredients.
• Pay attention to the dosage: Follow the dosage recommendations indicated on the Bad packaging. Do not exceed the recommended dose. If you have doubts, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
• Choose reliable manufacturers: Buy dietary supplements only from well -known and reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation and conduct quality control of their products. Pay attention to the availability of quality certificates.
• Check the expiration date: Before buying Bad, make sure that its shelf life has not expired.
• Start with small doses: If you first take dietary supplements, start with small doses and gradually increase them to the recommended. This will help to evaluate the tolerance of dietary supplements and avoid side effects.
• Diary maintenance: Write down what dietary supplements you accept, in what doses and how they affect your well -being and cognitive functions. This will help to track the effectiveness of dietary supplements and notice side effects in time.
• Consider the individual characteristics: Remember that the effectiveness of dietary supplements can depend on the individual characteristics of the body. What is suitable for one person may not be suitable for another.
• Be realistic: Do not expect instant results from receiving dietary supplements. Most dietary supplements take time to achieve the visible effect.
• Do not replace dietary supplements with medicines: Bades are not a replacement for medicines prescribed by a doctor. Do not stop taking medications and do not change their dosage without consulting a doctor.
• Combine dietary supplements with other methods: Bades are most effective in combination with other methods of maintaining cognitive functions, such as healthy nutrition, physical activity, mental activity and social interaction.
• Do not be afraid to ask questions: If you have any questions or doubts about the admission of dietary supplements, do not hesitate to ask them a doctor or a pharmacist.
• Be attentive to side effects: If you notice any side effects after the start of taking Bad, stop taking it and consult a doctor.
• Regularly review the reception scheme: Over time, your dietary supplements may change. Regularly review the scheme for taking dietary supplements with a doctor to make sure that it still meets your needs.
• Keep the dietary supplement correctly: Store dietary supplements in accordance with the instructions on the package. Typically, dietary supplements should be stored in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture.
• Be critical to advertising: Do not believe blindly advertising of dietary supplements. Check information from reliable sources.

VI. Prospects for research in the field of dietary supplements for cognitive functions

Studies in the field of dietary supplements for cognitive functions continue, and in the future new discoveries and developments can be expected. Promising areas of research include:

• The study of new ingredients: Researchers are looking for new natural and synthetic substances that can have a positive effect on cognitive functions.
• Development of new forms of dietary supplements: New forms of dietary supplements with improved bioavailability and efficiency are being developed. For example, liposomal forms of dietary supplements can be better absorbed by the body.
• Individual approach: Methods of an individual approach to the choice of dietary supplements based on genetic characteristics and other factors are developed.
• Studies of the long -term effect: Studies of the long -term effect of dietary supplements on cognitive functions and the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases are carried out.
• Combined drugs: The effectiveness of combined drugs containing several dietary supplements with a synergistic effect is being studied.
• Using technology: New technologies are used, such as neuroizualization and genomic, to study the mechanisms of action of dietary supplements on the brain.

VII. Legal aspects and regulation of the market of basas

It is important to understand that the dietary supplement market is not regulated as strictly as the drug market. Different countries have different rules and requirements for the production, sale and advertising of dietary supplements. Consumers should be careful when choosing dietary supplements and pay attention to the availability of permits and quality certificates.

• Russian legislation: In Russia, dietary supplements are regulated by Federal Law No. 29-FZ «On the quality and safety of food products» and other regulatory acts. Bades are subject to state registration and must comply with safety and quality requirements. Information about dietary supplements should be reliable and should not mislead consumers regarding their properties and effectiveness.
• International standards: There are several international standards of quality and safety standards in the world, such as GMP (Good Manoufacturing Practice) and ISO (International Organization for Standardization). When choosing dietary supplements, it is recommended to pay attention to the availability of certificates of compliance with these standards.

VIII. Dietary supplements in the context of a general approach to maintaining brain health

It must be emphasized that dietary supplements are not panacea and should be considered as part of an integrated approach to maintaining brain health. A healthy lifestyle, including healthy nutrition, physical and mental activity, social interaction and stress management, is the basis for maintaining cognitive functions in old age. Bades can be a useful addition to this complex approach, but should not replace it.

IX. Questions and answers about dietary supplements for the memory of the elderly

• Question: What dietary supplements are most effective for improving memory in the elderly?
  • Answer: There is no “magical” dietary supplement that is guaranteed to improve the memory of all the elderly. The effectiveness of dietary supplements may depend on the individual characteristics of the body and the causes of memory deterioration. However, some dietary supplements, such as ginkgo biloba, omega-3 fatty acids and Monnie Bacop, have more scientific evidence confirming their effectiveness to maintain cognitive functions. It is important to consult a doctor to determine which dietary supplements can be useful in your specific case.
• Question: Are the dietary supplements for the elderly?
  • Answer: Reception of dietary supplements with older people requires caution, as they often have concomitant diseases and they take several drugs at the same time. Bades can interact with medicines and cause side effects. Before taking any dietary supplements, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to evaluate risks and contraindications.
• Question: Can dietary supplements prevent Alzheimer’s development?
  • Answer: No, dietary supplements cannot prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is a complex neurodegenerative disease that is caused by multiple factors. Although some dietary supplements can have a positive effect on cognitive functions and protect neurons from damage, they cannot stop or turn the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Question: How long do you need to take dietary supplements to see the results?
  • Answer: Most dietary supplements take time to achieve the visible effect. You should not expect immediate results after the start of the dietary supplement. It usually takes several weeks or months of regular reception to evaluate the effectiveness of dietary supplements.
• Question: Where can you buy dietary supplements for memory?
  • Answer: Bad for memory can be bought in pharmacies, healthy food stores and online stores. It is important to choose dietary supplements from well -known and reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation and conduct quality control of their products.
• Question: What to do if dietary supplement does not help?
  • Answer: If dietary supplements do not help after several weeks or months of regular administration, consult your doctor. You may need another dietary supplement or another treatment method. It is important to remember that dietary supplements are not a panacea and cannot solve all memory problems.
• Question: Is it possible to take several dietary supplements at the same time?
  • Answer: Reception of several dietary supplements can simultaneously increase the risk of interaction between them and the occurrence of side effects. Before taking several dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor in order to evaluate risks and contraindications.

X. Resources for additional information

• Websites of medical organizations: On the web sites of the World Health Organization (WHO), the US National Institute of Health (NIH) and other medical organizations, information about cognitive impairment and methods of their prevention and treatment can be found.
• Websites of scientific journals: On the websites of scientific journals, such as The Lancet Neurology, Jama